Description
The CZ 550 Safari Classics .338 Win. Mag. 5 rd fixed mag fancy grade gloss blue is a purpose-built, controlled-round-feed bolt-action rifle designed for the world’s most demanding big-game hunting. It’s a modern classic that delivers proven Mauser 98 reliability, premium aesthetics, and the power to ethically take the largest North American game and dangerous African plains game. When your shot placement must be perfect under pressure, this is the rifle engineered for that moment.
- Controlled-Round Feed & Claw Extractor: The legendary Mauser 98 action ensures positive cartridge control from magazine to chamber and powerful primary extraction, even with hot loads.
- Fixed 5-Round Magazine: Provides a secure, reliable feed system. The hinged floorplate allows for safe unloading without cycling rounds through the action.
- Fancy Grade Walnut Stock: Features a high-gloss finish, detailed checkering, and a classic schnabel fore-end tip for superior aesthetics and a secure grip.
- Gloss Blue Metal Finish: A deep, rich, corrosion-resistant bluing on the barrel and action that complements the fancy walnut.
- Set Trigger: The single-set trigger allows for a crisp, light pull measured in ounces for precision shots, or a standard pull for general use.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .338 Winchester Magnum |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds, Fixed Box |
| Action Type | Bolt Action, Controlled Round Feed |
| Barrel Length | 25 Inches (Standard) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 9.3 lbs |
| Trigger | Single-Set, Adjustable |
| Stock | Fancy Grade European Walnut |
Weighing in at approximately 9.3 pounds, the CZ 550 Safari Classics manages the .338 Win. Mag.’s substantial recoil effectively, making follow-up shots more manageable than with lighter rifles. The 25-inch barrel provides optimal velocity for heavy bullets, giving you the terminal performance needed for deep penetration on elk, moose, or bear. This rifle is drop-in ready for optics mounting, with a drilled and tapped receiver compatible with standard scope bases from brands like Warne, Leupold, or CZ’s own rings. That said, mounting a premium scope like a Leupold VX-5HD or Zeiss Conquest V4 is a natural pairing for this level of rifle.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is not a general-purpose deer rifle. The CZ 550 Safari Classics in .338 Win. Mag. is for the hunter who pursues elk in steep timber, stalks moose in Alaska, or has a once-in-a-lifetime tag for a large, dangerous animal where shot reliability is non-negotiable. It’s for the shooter who appreciates traditional craftsmanship and wants a heirloom-quality firearm that performs as good as it looks. It’s built for the scenario where you get one chance, and your equipment cannot be the point of failure.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The Mauser 98 action is arguably the strongest and most reliable bolt action ever designed. The controlled-round feed and claw extractor virtually eliminate feeding and extraction failures. The fancy grade walnut and gloss bluing offer unmatched classic beauty in a modern production rifle. The set trigger provides exceptional accuracy potential. The .338 Win. Mag. cartridge is supremely versatile for all large game on the continent.
Cons: With a price of $2757.39, this is a significant investment. The fixed magazine limits rapid reloading compared to detachable box magazine systems. The high-gloss finish and fancy wood, while beautiful, require more care in the field to avoid scratches than a matte, synthetic-stocked rifle. The weight, while aiding recoil management, is noticeable on long stalks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .338 Winchester Magnum too much gun for elk?
A: Not at all. While powerful, it is considered one of the premier elk cartridges, especially for larger bulls or shots at extended ranges. It provides a major margin of error in terms of energy and penetration, leading to more ethical, one-shot kills. The rifle’s weight helps tame the recoil to manageable levels.
Q: Can this rifle handle handloads or the heaviest factory .338 loads?
A: Yes. The CZ 550 action is famously over-built for its cartridges. The .338 Win. Mag. version has a magnum-length action and a strong bolt face designed to safely handle maximum pressure loads. Always consult reloading manuals and start with recommended starting loads.
Q: What is the advantage of a fixed magazine and floorplate?
A: Reliability and security. A fixed magazine system has fewer moving parts to fail and ensures cartridges are always perfectly aligned for feeding. The hinged floorplate allows you to unload the entire magazine quickly and safely without cycling each live round through the chamber, a critical safety feature in camp or a vehicle.
This CZ 550 Safari Classics represents the intersection of timeless engineering and modern fit and finish. It’s a rifle that commands respect in the field and in the gun safe. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, this rifle ships to your local FFL where a transfer is required for firearm purchases. See the full details and make it the cornerstone of your serious hunting battery.
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